What should you wear for a couples or pre-wedding shoot? A couples or pre-wedding shoot is a beautiful opportunity to photograph your love, excitement, and joy ahead of your big day. It’s also the perfect chance to get comfortable in front of the camera and build confidence in posing naturally with your partner. Since most of my clients haven’t had a professional photoshoot together before, a short session allows a fun and relaxed way to ease into the experience while making wonderful memories. It also allows you to feel comfortable with me being your photographer for the day.

Your outfit plays a significant role in shaping the overall look and feel of your photos, so I always encourage couples to wear what makes them feel their best! Below are a few tried-and-tested tips to help you choose the perfect outfit.

Complement Each Other, Don’t Match

You don’t need to match colours, unless that’s your style! Instead, I suggest going for complementary tones, like soft neutrals, classic pastels, or simple combinations such as a t-shirt and jeans. Footwear is equally important, so I recommend choosing stylish but comfortable shoes—whether that’s heels, smart boots, or clean white or black trainers. I always take full-length shots and shoes can make all the difference in pulling together your overall look.

I always advise couples to coordinate their outfits to ensure a cohesive look. Avoid extremes, such as one person in a statement dress or suit while the other is dressed casually in jeans or a playsuit. Balance is important for a couples shoot.

Choose Timeless Pieces Over Trends

Your photos will be cherished for years to come and may even be used on wedding stationery or your wedding website. To keep them looking timeless, I always encourage my couples to go for classic, elegant pieces that won’t feel outdated over time.

For women, this could be your favourite dress, tailored blazer, a simple blouse and jeans, or a stylish jumpsuit. For men, a light button-down shirt, well-fitted jeans or chinos, or tailored shorts with a smart t-shirt can work wonderfully.

Dress for Your Location

I always suggest that you consider the location of your shoot and dress accordingly! Whether you’re strolling through the streets of London in an elegant outfit or enjoying a relaxed countryside shoot in casual wear, your clothing should suit the surroundings.

For instance, I recently photographed a couple at Brill Windmill during golden hour—they wore a stunning red dress and a blue shirt with tailored shorts, perfectly matching both the setting and their personalities. When you feel comfortable and confident, it shows in your photos!

Keep Jewellery & Layers Minimal for a Couples and Pre-Wedding Shoot

Layers can add variety to your outfit and provide flexibility for changing weather conditions. However, when it comes to accessories, less is more. Too much jewellery can distract from the focus on you as a couple, so I always suggest keeping it simple—wear your favourite pieces or everyday staples for an effortlessly polished look.

Footwear Matters

As mentioned, shoes play a bigger role than you might think! Wear something comfortable, stylish, and clean. Just remember that these photos may be on your walls  or shared by your family for years to come!

A Few Extra Tips on what to wear for a Couples or Pre-Wedding Shoot

As mentioned, shoes play a bigger role than you might think!

• Steam or iron your outfits before the shoot for a polished appearance.
• Avoid loud patterns, neon colours, or large logos that might distract from the intimate connection between you and your partner—unless it’s a signature piece you love!
• Most importantly, enjoy the experience. Whether you go for relaxed and casual or elegant and refined, your outfits should reflect who you are as a couple.

Are you thinking of having a shoot soon? Feel free to reach out with any questions or styling tips—I’m always happy to help! I offer couples and pre-wedding shoots, so if you’d like to book one, please do contact me here.

Below are a few photos of my beautiful clients, each showcasing unique styles that complement their locations while ensuring they feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.